Bernardo Pinango

Bernardo Pinango, born on February 9, 1960, in Caracas, Venezuela, is a former professional boxer who became a world Bantamweight and Super Bantamweight champion during his career. Boxing out of an orthodox stance and standing 5 feet 5 inches tall, Pinango combined technical skill with fierce determination, making him a top-class professional boxer as well as the owner of an Olympic silver medal from his amateur days.

Pinango made his professional debut on August 1, 1981, against Angel Torres in his hometown of Caracas, Venezuela. The bout ended in a draw, not the hoped-for start but an introduction to the paid ranks.

The pinnacle of Pinango's career came when he captured the WBA World Bantamweight title from defending champion Gaby Canizales in East Rutherford, New Jersey, winning a clear 15-round decision.

One of his most notable defences was on February 3, 1987, against Frankie Duarte at the Forum in Inglewood, California. Pinango won this bout unanimously after an intense 15-round match that showcased his ability to perform under pressure and in hostile environments. The scores were close but clear in his favour: 143-140, 145-140, and 142-141, reflecting the competitive nature of the bout. Pinango vacated the title afterwards to move up a weight division.

In February 1988, Pinango travelled to San Juan, Puerto Rico, to challenge Julio Gervacio for the WBA World Super Bantamweight belt. He won by split decision, becoming a two-weight champion.

Sadly, Pinango lost the title in his first defence to Mexico's Juan Jose Estrada in Tijuana, Mexico. A close split-point decision on the road resulted in the beginning of the end for the now-former world champion.

Pinango's professional boxing career ended on April 7, 1990, against Troy Dorsey at the Hilton Hotel in Las Vegas. The fight ended in a technical knockout in the 8th round of a scheduled 10-round match, marking the end of an otherwise stellar career.